Merseyside Police officer's wife among first to receive Elizabeth Emblem

The wife of Merseyside Police Constable Neil Doyle, who was killed in December 2014, has spoken of her pride after she received the Elizabeth Emblem in recognition of her late husband.

Sarah Doyle is among the next of kin of more than 30 former police officers, firefighters and other public servants who have died in public service due to receive the award in recognition of their deceased loved ones.

The Emblem was announced earlier this year to commemorate public servants who died in the line of duty and is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.

Among the first recipients is Sarah, whose husband Neil was killed while on a Christmas night out in Liverpool city centre on 19 December 2014 when the offenders recognised him as a police officer.

The fact Neil was recognised as an officer that night meant he was added to the National Police Officers Roll of Honour and Remembrance, a record of public service and sacrifice of all British Police Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

In September 2015, two men were jailed for a total of 14 years, four months after being convicted of Neil’s manslaughter, and the assaults of two colleagues he was with on the night.

Sarah Doyle will collect the award from King Charles III later this year.

She said: “It is overwhelming. I’m hugely proud and honoured to be receiving the Elizabeth Emblem in Neil’s name.

“I’m thrilled that he’s among the first to be recognised with the Emblem, and that police officers, staff, and emergency services who have lost their lives are being honoured.

“It’s really important for the families to see their loved ones recognised in this way.

“On 19 December it will be 10 years since we lost Neil, so it is particularly fitting and moving for me that I will be presented with the Emblem near the time of his anniversary.”

Chief Constable Serena Kennedy said: “Neil was a hugely respected and well-loved colleague at Merseyside Police, and his death sent shockwaves throughout the force and the communities in which he served. He is very much remembered and missed by the force.

“Neil’s widow Sarah has been an incredible force for good in the face of the tragedy. She helped establish the Doyle Phillips Foundation through which she has been a passionate advocate for the families of officers and staff who have died through natural causes or tragic circumstances whist serving for Merseyside Police.

“The charity has helped support many people like her, and the selflessness and compassion she has shown is a real testament to Sarah’s spirit and a fitting tribute to Neil.

“I am extremely pleased that Neil’s memory has been honoured in this way and that Sarah will now, deservedly, have the opportunity to collect the Emblem from the King.”

The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer said: “We must never forget those who have given their lives to protect others in the line of duty.

“While families will never be able to replace their loved ones, the Elizabeth Emblem pays tribute to the sacrifice they have made.”

Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper said: “We will forever remember the heroism of these police officers, firefighters and public servants, whose acts of selfless courage provide an example to us all. Like Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, they dedicated their lives to the service of their communities, and it is fitting that we thank them and honour them with the Emblem created in her name.

“This will be a sad but proud day for all the loved ones whom these heroes left behind, and we offer our gratitude to them too for the strength and dignity that they have shown, and the immense sacrifice that their families have made. We also thank all those who have campaigned for this Emblem over many years to ensure that the courage of those who keep us safe is recognised.”